Full details on the Toronto Blue Jays massive contract with Kazuma Okamoto
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Victor William
Jan 3, 2026 (2:54 PM)
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Photo credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images
Toronto Blue Jays have officially added one of Japan's most consistent power bats, agreeing to a four-year, $60 million contract with third baseman Kazuma Okamoto.
The deal, reported Sunday, gives Toronto a middle-of-the-order threat and a stable presence at third base. Okamoto, 29, spent his entire career with the Yomiuri Giants before being posted for MLB clubs this offseason. https://www.bluejaysinsider.com/mlb-team/toronto-blue-jays/full-details-on-the-toronto-blue-jays-massive-contract-with-kazuma-okamoto of tapping into NPB talent for offensive reinforcements.
Okamoto hit 36 home runs with 100 RBIs in 2024 for Yomiuri and followed it up with a .327 average and 15 homers in a shortened 2025 season. He's been one of Japan's most reliable power hitters, topping 30 home runs in five of the past six years while maintaining an OPS near .900. Those numbers explain the Blue Jays' willingness to commit $15 million annually through 2029.
Kazuma Okamoto Jays deal: $60M, 4 years
Kazuma Okamoto fills a long-term Toronto Blue Jays need
The Blue Jays lineup lacked right-handed power behind Vladimir Guerrero Jr. last season, ranking 10th in the American League in slugging percentage. Okamoto's addition addresses that gap while also offering defensive stability. He's primarily a third baseman but has also played first base, giving Toronto flexibility if injuries or lineup shuffles occur.
The move also creates a ripple for Ernie Clement, who filled in admirably at third base in 2025, hitting .268 over 92 games. With Okamoto now under contract, Clement likely shifts back into a utility infield role unless he forces his way into the lineup during spring training.
Okamoto's arrival also signals that Toronto is serious about extending its competitive window. With Daulton Varsho and George Springer both under contract through 2026, the Blue Jays' front office appears focused on building a power-balanced lineup that can support a top-end rotation anchored by Kevin Gausman.
Okamoto's contract includes no player opt-out, per multiple reports, giving Toronto four full seasons of control. His debut at Rogers Centre will mark one of the most anticipated MLB arrivals of the 2026 campaign.
There are no opt outs in Okamoto's deal with Toronto, per source. He gets a $5 million signing bonus.
The deal also includes no opt outs and a $5 million bonus.
Source: New York Times
Blue Jays reach agreement with Kazuma Okamoto: Source
Blue Jays reach agreement with Kazuma Okamoto: Source
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| POLL | ||
JANVIER 3|467 ANSWERS Full details on the Toronto Blue Jays massive contract with Kazuma Okamoto Will Kazuma Okamoto's power transform the Toronto Blue Jays lineup? | ||
| Yes definitely | 217 | 46.5 % |
| Maybe | 181 | 38.8 % |
| Not enough | 32 | 6.9 % |
| Too soon | 37 | 7.9 % |
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